by Admin | Feb 24, 2025 | Guest Service |
This guide explores the evolving role of craft beer in the luxury superyacht experience. Once regarded as a basic refreshment for the crew, beer has transformed into a sophisticated beverage option for guests, driven by a global craft beer movement. In this article, we delve into the history of beer, examine modern trends in brewing, and offer practical advice for superyacht professionals.
A Journey Through Beer History
Beer is among the oldest known beverages in human history. Its roots can be traced back thousands of years when ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia discovered the art of fermentation. Early brewers produced beer for enjoyment and as a safer alternative to water, which was often contaminated. In ancient Egypt, for example, beer was a staple commodity sold alongside bread, highlighting its importance in daily life.
Brewery methods evolved over centuries, and beer soon became a central element in various cultural and ceremonial traditions. In many societies, consuming beer in the morning or at meals was common—a custom that might seem unusual to modern travellers. Anecdotes from different parts of the world, such as witnessing early-morning refreshments at roadside cafes in Mallorca, remind us that beer has long been integrated into the fabric of everyday life. These historical insights set the stage for understanding how beer has grown into the diverse beverage it is today.
The Rise of Craft Beer in the Modern Era
Over the past few decades, a craft brewing renaissance has occurred. Innovative techniques, diverse flavour profiles, and a strong focus on quality and locality characterize this resurgence. Several key factors have driven this trend:
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Consumers increasingly favour products made with locally grown, organic ingredients. This preference supports regional agriculture and fosters a closer connection between the brewer and the community.
- Creative Flavor Innovations: Brewers are experimenting with a range of unconventional ingredients—from exotic fruits and spices to experimental hop varieties. These creative approaches have led to the development of beers with unique and memorable taste profiles.
- Homebrewing Enthusiasm: The accessibility of homebrewing kits and online resources has encouraged many enthusiasts to experiment with their own recipes. This grassroots movement has contributed to a broader appreciation for the craft of beer-making.
- Enhanced Social Experiences: Today’s travellers seek more than just a beverage; they desire an experience. Superyacht itineraries that incorporate stops at local breweries or tasting sessions allow guests to immerse themselves in regional beer culture.
Understanding these trends is essential for the superyacht crew. A carefully chosen beer selection that includes artisanal and locally produced options can enhance the guest experience, turning a simple drink into a narrative of craftsmanship and regional heritage.
To cultivate an exceptional onboard beverage program, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the various categories of beer. Each style brings its own distinct characteristics, production techniques, and cultural importance. In this overview, we will delve into some of the primary beer types that hold particular relevance in the superyacht environment, aiming to enhance the overall guest experience.
1. India Pale Ale (IPA)
Origins and Evolution:
The story of India Pale Ale dates back to the 19th century when British brewers developed the style for long voyages to colonial territories. The extra hops and spices added to pale ale were intended to preserve the beer during lengthy sea journeys, ensuring that it remained fresh upon arrival.
Flavor and Characteristics:
Modern IPAs are renowned for their bold, bitter profiles. The signature bitterness comes from the heavy use of hops, which also contribute citrus, pine, and floral notes. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) that typically ranges from 4.5% to 6%, IPAs are both refreshing and robust, making them a popular choice among guests seeking a distinctive taste.
Why IPAs on Superyachts?
Offering a selection of IPAs onboard caters to guests who appreciate artisanal flavours and the heritage of the craft. Their bold profile and refreshing bitterness can serve as a delightful alternative to more conventional wine or spirit selections.
2. Ale
Production and Flavor Profile:
Ales are brewed at warmer temperatures than lagers, which accelerates fermentation and results in a full-bodied, often fruity flavour. The warmth of the brewing process allows the yeast to contribute additional aromatic and flavour complexities. While many ales have an ABV below 4%, there is a wide variety available to suit different tastes.
Examples and Applications:
Examples of well-crafted ales might include traditional pale ales and Belgian blonde ales. Their rich flavor profiles and balanced textures make them an excellent option for pairing with a variety of onboard dishes, from light appetizers to more substantial meals.
Cultural and Service Insights:
Ales have deep roots in European brewing traditions and are often celebrated for their craftsmanship. For superyacht hosts, a diverse ale selection ensures that guests with varied palates can enjoy a drink that matches their culinary experience.
3. Lager
Brewing Process and Taste:
Lagers are brewed at cooler temperatures, which results in a clean, crisp beverage with a smooth finish. Their colour can range from pale straw to deep amber, and they are generally more neutral in flavour compared to ales and IPAs.
Global Popularity:
Lagers are the most widely consumed type of beer around the world. European brands have long dominated the market, while American lagers also enjoy significant popularity. Their versatility and broad appeal make them a reliable choice for any beverage program.
Onboard Advantages:
For superyacht guests, lagers offer a refreshing option that is both familiar and easy to drink. Including a well-rounded selection of lagers ensures that even guests who may be less adventurous in their beer choices can find something enjoyable.
4. Stout
Defining Features:
Stouts are distinguished by their dark appearance, thick texture, and creamy head. They often have roasted flavours reminiscent of coffee, chocolate, or caramel, which set them apart from other beer styles. Although stouts are less universally consumed than lagers or ales, they have a dedicated following.
Notable Brands and Variations:
Iconic stouts, such as those inspired by traditional Irish recipes, have become synonymous with quality. With ABVs ranging from 5% up to around 13%, stouts can provide a bolder drinking experience for those who favour rich, complex flavours.
Guest Considerations:
Offering stouts is vital for the superyacht crew to satisfy guests with particular tastes. A thoughtfully curated stout selection reflects attention to detail and a commitment to accommodating all preferences.
Emerging Innovations and Trends in Craft Beer
As the craft beer scene continues to evolve, several emerging trends are reshaping the way we experience this ancient beverage. Understanding these innovations can help superyacht professionals stay ahead of the curve and further enhance the guest experience.
Experimentation with Unconventional Flavors
Brewers today are embracing experimentation by incorporating unique ingredients into their recipes. From tropical fruits and unusual spices to unexpected blends of traditional hops, these innovations create new taste sensations that challenge conventional definitions of beer. For superyacht guests, sampling a limited-edition brew or a seasonal experimental IPA can be a highlight of their journey.
Emphasis on Sustainability
Sustainability has become a core value in the brewing industry. Many craft breweries now prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy sources, recycling water, and sourcing ingredients locally. For luxury vessels that emphasize environmental responsibility, featuring sustainably produced beers not only aligns with modern values but also enhances the overall guest experience.
Integration of Beer Tourism
The rise of brewery tours and beer festivals has broadened the beer culture landscape. Superyacht itineraries increasingly include visits to local breweries, offering guests an immersive experience that connects them with the local culture and traditions. These excursions provide a unique narrative to the beverage service, turning each beer into a story of its origin and craftsmanship.
Personalized Beverage Programs
With the growing diversity in beer styles, superyacht hosts are now curating personalized beverage menus tailored to their guests’ preferences. This approach involves maintaining a dynamic selection that includes both classic brews and innovative craft beers. By engaging with guests to understand their tastes, beverage professionals can recommend the ideal beer for any occasion, further enhancing the luxury experience.
Practical Guidelines for Superyachts Crew
For those responsible for managing beverage services on superyachts, the evolving landscape of craft beer offers both opportunities and challenges. Here are some practical tips to ensure your onboard beer program stands out:
Stay Informed and Educated
- Continuous Learning: Keep up with the latest trends in craft brewing by reading industry publications, attending workshops, and participating in beer festivals. This ongoing education will help you make informed decisions about your inventory.
- Engage with Experts: Establish relationships with local brewers and distributors. Their insights can provide valuable information about upcoming trends and exclusive offerings.
Curate a Diverse Inventory
- Variety is Key: Ensure that your beer selection spans multiple styles—from crisp lagers and robust IPAs to complex ales and rich stouts. This diversity will cater to the wide range of tastes among your guests.
- Local and Regional Options: Incorporate beers from local or regional breweries whenever possible. This not only supports local economies but also offers guests a taste of the destination’s unique brewing culture.
Enhance the Guest Experience
- Personalized Recommendations: Take the time to learn about your guests’ preferences. A knowledgeable conversation about their favourite beer styles can lead to personalized recommendations and a more engaging service.
- Thoughtful Pairings: Consider pairing specific beers with meals or snacks. For instance, a robust stout might complement a hearty dinner, while a light lager could be ideal for a refreshing aperitif.
- Interactive Experiences: Organize tasting sessions or beer pairing events. Such interactive experiences can turn a routine service into a memorable part of the journey.
Embrace Sustainability
- Eco-Friendly Practices: When selecting beers, consider those produced with sustainable methods. Highlighting eco-friendly options can resonate with guests who value environmental responsibility.
- Transparent Sourcing: Inform guests about the origins and production methods of the beers you serve. This transparency can build trust and enhance the overall guest experience.
Team Training and Development
- Regular Workshops: Host regular training sessions for your crew to ensure that everyone is knowledgeable about the different beer styles, their origins, and ideal serving conditions.
- Tasting Sessions: Organize periodic tasting sessions to familiarize the team with new and emerging beer trends. A well-informed team is better equipped to offer expert recommendations and create a memorable service experience.
The Broader Impact of Craft Beer on Superyacht Hospitality
The integration of craft beer into superyacht hospitality reflects broader shifts in the global travel and luxury service sectors. Today’s travellers are not merely looking for transportation or accommodation; they are seeking immersive experiences that connect them with the culture and spirit of the destinations they visit.
Offering a carefully curated craft beer selection aboard a superyacht goes beyond simply providing a beverage. It is an invitation to explore a rich tapestry of history, innovation, and local pride. Each beer tells its own story—from the ancient traditions of early brewing to the modern innovations that have redefined what a beer can be. For guests, enjoying a locally brewed IPA or a well-crafted stout becomes a way to connect with the essence of a region and its people.
Moreover, the emphasis on sustainability and local sourcing aligns with current consumer values. Today’s luxury travellers are increasingly environmentally conscious and eager to support businesses that prioritise ethical practices. By incorporating sustainably produced craft beers into your beverage program, you enhance the guest experience and contribute to a broader movement toward responsible luxury.
The evolution of beer on superyachts also signifies a shift in the role of the beverage professional. No longer is it enough to simply manage an inventory; today’s hosts and stewards must be well-versed in the stories behind each drink. They must act as ambassadors of the local culture, guiding guests through a curated experience that is as much about storytelling as it is about service.
Conclusion
The transformation of beer from a basic refreshment for the crew into a celebrated element of superyacht hospitality is a testament to the enduring appeal and adaptability of this ancient beverage. The craft beer revolution has redefined the way we think about beer—elevating it to a status that mirrors the sophistication and diversity of the modern luxury experience.
By embracing a comprehensive understanding of various beer styles—from the bold bitterness of IPAs to the crisp clarity of lagers, the nuanced complexity of ales, and the rich depth of stouts—beverage professionals can create a dynamic and engaging onboard experience. Coupled with emerging trends such as sustainable brewing practices, localized sourcing, and immersive beer tourism, the modern craft beer program has the power to enhance every aspect of the superyacht journey.
For yacht stewardesses and stewards dedicated to delivering excellence, the key lies in continuous learning, thoughtful curation, and genuine engagement with guests. By doing so, you transform each beverage service into an exploration of heritage, innovation, and local artistry—ensuring that every sip is a memorable part of your guests’ voyage.
References
McGrath, K., Luttrell, R., Luttrell, M. T., & McGrath, S. (2017). Brew your business: The ultimate craft beer playbook. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers. Pezzi, M. G., Faggian, A., & Reid, N. (Eds.). (2020). Agritourism, wine tourism, and craft beer tourism: Local responses to peripherality through tourism niches. Taylor & Francis Group. Tyma, A. W. (Ed.). (2017). Beer culture in theory and practice: Understanding craft beer culture in the United States. Lexington Books.
by Admin | May 6, 2024 | Guest Service, Wine |
by Admin | Mar 21, 2024 | Guest Service, Superyacht Crew Training, Table Settings |
From Cutlery Chaos to Dining Delight: How To Set A Table
Ahoy there, fellow stewards and stewardesses of the superyacht world! While we’re busy ensuring our guests are sailing smoothly through the seas of luxury, there’s one task that can sometimes leave us feeling a bit like we’re navigating uncharted waters: setting the table. But fear not, for I’m here to guide you through the choppy seas of cutlery confusion and onto the shores of dining delight!
Now, setting a table may seem like a simple task, but for those of us in the world of superyachts, it’s an art form. After all, we’re not just setting a table; we’re creating an experience. So, grab your napkin folds and let’s dive in!
Guidelines for Setting a Table
1. **Know Your Space:** Before you start arranging cutlery like a game of culinary Tetris, take a moment to assess your table space. You don’t want your guests feeling like they’re dining in a cutlery jungle gym.
2. **Consider the Menu:** Just as a captain charts their course, plan your table setting according to the meal being served. Different courses may require different utensils, so make sure you’re prepared. Just allow your FRIENDLY chef some time to brief you properly.
3. **Mind Your Etiquette:** A superyacht stewardess is a paragon of etiquette, so remember to follow proper dining protocols. Forks to the left, knives to the right, and napkins neatly folded – let’s keep it classy, folks.
Imagine, if you will, a pristine white tablecloth gently billowing in the sea breeze. At each setting, gleaming silverware rests atop fine china, while crystal glasses stand at attention, waiting to be filled with the finest vintage.
**How to Set a Table with Cutlery:**
1. **Start with the Basics:** Begin by placing the dinner plate in the center of each setting. To the left, arrange the forks in order of use – salad fork, dinner fork – with the prongs facing up like little culinary antennae.
2. **Knife Knowledge:** On the right side of the plate, lay the knife with the blade facing the plate. To its right, position the spoons, each one ready to tackle its designated course with gusto.
3. **Don’t Forget the Extras:** Depending on the meal, you may need to add additional utensils. For example, a soup spoon or a seafood fork can elevate the dining experience from ordinary to extraordinary.
The Superyacht Stewardess’s Guide to Setting a Table – **Basic Table Setting Rules:**
1. **Keep it Balanced:** A well-set table is like a perfectly trimmed sail – balanced and poised for adventure. Make sure there’s an equal distance between each place setting to maintain harmony.
2. **Mind Your Space:** Avoid overcrowding the table with unnecessary clutter. Only include the essentials for each course to prevent a cutlery catastrophe.
3. **Stay Neat and Tidy:** Just as we strive for immaculate cabins, our table settings should be pristine. No crumbs, no smudges – just pure, unadulterated elegance.
Consider this your holy grail of table setting wisdom, passed down through the ages by generations of superyacht stewards and stewardesses (ha ha, not really, it was just written by this old girl). Treat it with reverence, for within its pages lie the secrets to creating dining experiences that will be remembered long after the anchor is raised.
In conclusion, setting a table as a superyacht stewardess is no mere task – it’s an opportunity to showcase our skills and elevate the dining experience to new heights. So, polish those silverware, straighten those napkins, and let’s set sail for culinary excellence! Bon appétit, my fellow stewards and stewardesses!
Buy Your Copy Today.
by Admin | Sep 15, 2022 | Guest Service, Superyacht Crew Training, Table Settings |
How to Set a Table for a 3-Course Dinner
A three-course meal on board a super yacht would be classified as a casual dinner, consisting of an entree’, main meal and dessert. It would often be reserved for just the family or primary charterers onboard.
As a superyacht stewardess is just a part of the job, right? Well, yes and no. It is in the steward/ess job description, but what makes a dining experience just that little bit extra is all the effort you go to. Please let me explain further.
For an informal three-course dinner, you will need to consider the following to create a truly magnificent dining experience:
Table linen.
In this instance, as it is an informal dinner, I would recommend using the evening placemats and serviettes. Depending on the menu, choose colours that will complement the food. If the yacht doesn’t have evening placemats, or you are just purchasing new table linen, then look for delicate fabrics such as fine linen in gold, silver, black and intricate lace weaves for that luxurious feel. If you need a little inspiration on opulence, have a quick look at the CHRISTOFLE website.
The table centrepiece.
The centrepiece or table decorations again would be kept to a minimum. Consider a less is more approach. Use elegant hues such as creams, whites, and gold to bounce the soft candlelight around the room.
Cutlery.
Next to go onto the table is your freshly polished cutlery. As previously mentioned, this will consist of entrée, main and dessert cutlery. Forks on the left and knives on the right, the main cutlery is laid down closest to the plate, and then entrée will sit next to the mains on the outer side. Should soup be on the menu, then the spoon will be placed on the right side of the main fork. The placement of the dessert cutlery has been debated over and over, but as a traditionalist, I would lay the dessert cutlery in two ways. The first would be to like to lay the cutlery directly above the main plate with the spoon below the fork, with the spoon handle facing to the right and the fork to the left, which the service staff will pull down once the mains have been cleared.
Or I would leave it off the table together until the main has been completely cleared, then I would lay the appropriate cutlery just before the service of the dessert. It really depended on how many guests were eating and how formal the guests liked to be served.
Glasses.
Lastly, consider the crystal wear. Do your guests drink wine? What wine will compliment the food. Because it is a three-course dinner, consider just placing a water glass and a wine glass on the table. I know this may upset some people, but nowadays, our guests know what they like, and indeed, the chef knows what wine will compliment the food. Of course, it is not a big deal if you would like to set the table with a water glass, a white wine glass and a red wine glass. But for an elegant dining experience, I would lay the table with minimal glass wear.
Finally, as a superyacht chief stewardess, you would always consider cultural diversity and differentiating service customs when you are briefing your junior crew onboard.
Purchase Your Copy of The Stewardess Bible and The Chief Stewardess Bible
Here:
How to Set a Table for a 3-Course Dinner
- Table Linen
- Table decorations
- Place mats and napkins
- Cutlery: (soup) Entrée, main, and dessert
- Glasses: Water and wine
Soupspoon only if required. Accompanying condiments, salt and pepper, and extra wine glasses to be kept on the waiter’s station to be served if and when needed.
by Admin | Nov 1, 2017 | Guest Service |
How to Set up a Luxury Dinner on the Beach
As a Superyacht stewardess, providing excellence in service is just what you do and providing a luxury dining experience on the sand is one way, which will create lasting memories for your guests. Your guests are probably used to dining in luxury, so it is your job to provide them with beautiful experiences—something they can’t do at home.
Preparations:
Before you start gathering everything you need, consider what you want from the dining experience for your guests. It could be the sight of the sun setting on the horizon, the evening breeze, or the view of stars and the moon late in the night.
Having the best possible moment for your guests in mind will help you find the perfect location. This could range from the sandy stretches with a graceful touch, to rocky ocean shores and to a place where the last rays of the sun are most visible as they disappear into the horizon.
The logistics of setting up a luxury dinner on the beach from a yacht can be a little bit of a challenge. However, remember you are a professional superyacht crew, and making magical moments for your guests comes naturally to you.
How to set up a luxury dinner on the beach.
You will need to consider the following items when planning this dinner.
Lighting:
Lighting is an essential factor because you will not have a power source. Candles, hurricane lamps and tiki lamps are a great way to add ambience and practical lighting to this remote area.
Dinner candles are selected depending on your preferences. The most common candle styles include those that are 100% beeswax, bayberry tapers, colonettes, dollars, tapers and Aristas.
The candles could be patterned, coloured, and preferably non-scented (you don’t want this messing with the delicious menu that the chef has prepared).
Other essential factors included when setting candles are holders and warmers. Choose your most preferred warmer from a list of Aurora pewter, hurricane black, hurricane oil, hurricane rustic brown and the brushed bronze.
The Furniture:
This is a tricky one because you will need somewhere to store this furniture. And as we all know, space on a superyacht is a precious commodity. Therefore, the obvious statement here to make is that the furniture must be able to fold away.
The chairs should be strong, firm to the ground, padded to improve comfort, meticulously neat, heroically arranged and not make screeching sounds due to movements. great choices when purchasing the furniture would be a royal palm beach solid wood chair, Moseley, fine view, parsons, Caravella, Chastain side chair or Aubrey.
Attractive chairs welcome you to the table and make the mealtimes more inviting the above image clearly demonstrates this point nicely.
The dinner tables should be stable to the ground and large enough to accommodate your guest’s needs comfortably. Linen should cover the entire table and add to the attractiveness of it. The colours and patterns of the soft material should blend perfectly.
The menu:
Your chef is probably very good at what she/he does. However, the challenge here will be to create a menu that is up to standard, but with limited resources. I mean the tender runs back and forth to the yacht’s galley would be a real mood killer.
Therefore the foods, drinks and music should blend excellently with the location and as best you can with the resources that you have available to you.
You are going to have to ask the deck department to help you with achieving a luxury dinner on the beach. First, you may need them to scout out a super romantic location. You will also need them to help you to carry all of the items your need ashore. Moreover, finally, you will need help setting up this romantic dinner.
Set the service tables away from the guests, make sure you have adequate lighting and make sure the chef has as much help as possible.
The crew demonstrate a degree of confidence, maintain physical and verbal neatness, be attentive, fast acting and approachable. Lastly, A sparkling smile and a sharp eye will help you gauge the right level of service for this unique location.
The sand may brush off and the salt may wash away, but the memories will last forever.
Image via Strada
Lastly, a detailed checklist has been sent out to all those who have subscribed!
by Admin | Mar 15, 2016 | Guest Service |
The Power of a Smile In Guest Service
We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do. – Mother Teresa
The power of a smile in body language is significant.
It’s a way to show your guests and customers that you have a strong desire and commitment to keeping them happy. If you work in a guest services field one of the most important things you can do is to learn to separate your personal and professional life. Maybe you woke up this morning and you weren’t feeling well. Or maybe you are having a lot of personal upheaval in your life right now.
The bottom line is that these are personal issues that have no place in your workplace. You need to learn to shut out all of your personal concerns when you are at work and give your full attention to your guests and customers. They don’t want or need to know that you have personal issues going on. What they need is to see you with a smile, exuding positive body language, and being there to greet and help them with whatever they need.
The Power of a Smile In Guest Service
Now that the power of a smile in body language should be clear to you,
It’s important that you set an example for others in your workplace. It doesn’t matter if you are an owner, manager, or a regular employee, leading by example is a great way to get the message across to others that smiling and making the right impression on guests is essential to the success of your business. So what can you do as only one person?
You can help to start building a culture where smiling and positively greeting every guest becomes commonplace. You can help others to learn about how important non-visual communication is. Even if you aren’t in a position of leadership you can lead by example. Given enough time your co-workers should notice the way that you treat customers, and management will as well. This can lead to further career advancement opportunities for you, and it may also prompt management to urge other workers to adopt your example.
We’ve all heard the old saying that the customer is always right. The truth is that while the sentiment is a great way to look at customer service, it’s actually far from the truth. In fact, in many cases, customers are wrong and get upset about something that is not the fault of the business they are at.
Does this mean that you should tell a customer they’re wrong? No, of course not. You may have to explain the position or policies of your business, and you may not be able to give them the resolution that they want. However, you should never be as harsh as to tell a guest or customer that they are wrong. Instead, you should remember to approach them with a smile, and always be respectful to them. Even if they don’t like what you have to tell them, the fact that you use nonverbal communication such as smiling will help to make the encounter with them less hostile and more positive.
Is the key to both your success as a person and the key to the success of the business that you own or work for. Remember that a lot of how we communicate as people is nonverbal in nature.
If you approach a guest or customer with a frown and a slouch you are going to get your interaction with them off on the wrong foot. At that point, even if you have nothing but wonderful things to tell them they will already get a bad feeling just by looking at you.
Instead, you need to make sure that you stand up tall, show them that you are a positive person, and always greet them with a smile. You want your guests and customers, to feel welcome and appreciated, and showing them a smile is a great way to start this process.
The Stewardess Bible is on Sale Now!
